Catherine Hall Primary marks 50th anniversary with grand return after hurricane damage

Catherine Hall Primary and Infant School welcomed students back with a Blue Carpet Walk and a ceremonial entrance as it launched its 50th-anniversary year in St James, Jamaica.

The celebration, held under the theme “Rooted in Tradition, Growing in Excellence,” followed a church service at Sam Sharpe Teachers’ College on Sunday that officially opened the school’s Golden Jubilee observances. Students, parents, stakeholders and visitors passed through a decorated entrance, with children stopping at a 360-degree photo booth and commemorative frame.

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We were severely damaged and flooded by Hurricane Melissa.

The return marked a recovery milestone for the school, which suffered severe damage and flooding during Hurricane Melissa. Principal Kay-Esther Malcolm said support from the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information and the National Education Trust had helped restore the institution to about 85%. Parents and private-sector organisations also provided school supplies, furniture and other assistance for students affected by the hurricane.

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But with the help of the ministry and the National Education Trust, we have been able to restore the school to about 85 per cent.

Work remains to finish the rehabilitation, including restoration of the canteen, which Malcolm expects to have operating by October. Despite the disruption, she said she was delighted to see students and parents arrive happy and ready to begin the new term.

Malcolm said the anniversary offered an opportunity to reflect on the school’s legacy while continuing to develop students academically and prepare them for high school, college and productive citizenship.

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I’m very delighted to be here at school this morning… today being our 50th year in existence.